Zendesk Tech For Good Impact Awards

The Zendesk Tech for Good Impact Awards represent a philanthropic initiative spearheaded by Zendesk Foundation as part of its broader Tech for Good program. First launched in 2022, the Impact Awards were designed to recognize and support nonprofit organizations that utilize technology in innovative ways to uplift and empower underserved communities. Zendesk, a customer experience software company, leverages its platform and resources through this program to foster meaningful impact across a global nonprofit landscape. The Foundation’s goal is to advance equitable access to opportunity and support communities in times of crisis by providing both financial grants and in-kind software donations to qualified nonprofit applicants. The 2026 Impact Awards cycle includes both monetary grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, as well as free access to Zendesk software. Zendesk has committed to multiple awards this year, with the final number of recipients to be determined based on the strength and alignment of applications received. Applications must directly relate to one or more of Zendesk Foundation’s impact pillars: fostering community by facilitating connections and mutual support; promoting resilience in times of crisis through disaster preparedness or recovery; and creating career pathways into the tech industry, thereby reducing unemployment and economic inequality. Eligible applicants must demonstrate how the use of Zendesk products will amplify their ability to reach and serve disadvantaged populations. To be considered, applicants must submit a completed application through the designated online form no later than July 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Applications submitted via email or in languages other than English will not be accepted. Additionally, applicants are required to upload proof of nonprofit status in the “attachments” section of the application. Only charitable organizations in good standing—including U.S.-based 501(c)(3) entities and equivalent international nonprofits—are eligible to apply. Importantly, organizations that are current or past Zendesk grantees or current Zendesk customers are not eligible for funding in this cycle. Furthermore, due to compliance restrictions, Zendesk cannot fund organizations based in certain countries including but not limited to Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, and Russia. The evaluation process will prioritize applicants whose projects present clear, measurable goals, and who provide compelling use cases for Zendesk technology to extend services to at-risk populations. Reviewers will assess alignment with the Foundation’s core focus areas, the potential for technology to scale impact, and overall organizational capacity. While Zendesk permits use of its platform for internal functions (e.g., volunteer or HR management), successful proposals will center on how Zendesk’s software enables direct service improvements or outreach enhancements. Grant notifications will be issued after August 30, 2026, with additional award logistics to be communicated at that time. Applicants are encouraged to review Zendesk’s FAQs, evaluation criteria, and case studies of past winners to understand the standards and expectations of a strong proposal. Although Zendesk does not impose a pre-application step such as a Letter of Intent, applicants encountering technical issues may submit a support ticket for assistance. No phone or email applications will be accepted. At this time, no downloadable PDF version of the application has been referenced in the source material. The Zendesk Tech for Good Impact Awards exemplify the intersection of technology and philanthropy, and seek to empower nonprofit leaders who are innovating in service delivery and social change. By combining software donations with grant funding, the program amplifies nonprofit impact across sectors and geographies, making it a valuable opportunity for mission-driven organizations seeking to expand their capabilities through technology.

Review FAQs and case studies before applying; ensure strong alignment with impact areas.